Police personnel who serve society day and night without concern for their own health are the true protectors of the community, said Deputy Commissioner Kumara. He was speaking after inaugurating the Annual Sports Meet – 2025 organised by the Mandya district police at the District Police Parade Ground on Wednesday.

Highlighting the police force’s continuous commitment to public safety, the DC praised their tireless efforts in maintaining peace and preventing crime. He likened the duty of police officers to that of soldiers guarding national borders, saying that while soldiers protect the nation from external threats, police safeguard society from within.

Fitness and discipline in focus at Mandya

DC Kumara urged personnel to take part in sports to remain mentally and physically fit, describing sports as “true health insurance” for frontline workers. He said that regular participation in athletics not only reduces stress but also fosters teamwork, unity and discipline.

Zilla Panchayat CEO K R Nandini, who also addressed the gathering, noted that the police department embodies selfless service and discipline. She commended the Karnataka Police for effectively using technology in crime detection and prevention, and congratulated the Mandya police for maintaining law and order in the district.

The event witnessed the participation of district police officials including Superintendent of Police Mallikarjuna Baladandi, Additional SPs Gangadhara Swamy and Thimmaiah, and other departmental officers.

Kodagu district police begin sports meet in Madikeri

Meanwhile, the annual Kodagu district police sports meet commenced on Thursday at the Police Parade Ground in Madikeri. The multi-day event, scheduled to continue until November 29, features a range of activities including running, jumping events, cricket, kabaddi and other team sports.

The programme began with a disciplined procession led by various police teams, followed by the ceremonial handover of the sports torch by Sanju, last year’s individual champion.

During the occasion, medals were presented to winners from the recent 7th South Zone Duty Meet. Gold medallists Jitendra Rai and K K Swamy, silver medallists M Shiva, Kiran, Paramesh and Leelambika, and bronze medallists Muddumahadeva, Ayush and N R Harish were felicitated for their achievements.

ZP CEO Anand Prakash Meena inaugurated the meet, stressing the importance of physical activity for enhancing mental wellbeing and resilience among police personnel. District SP K Ramarajan also spoke about how sports contribute to stress relief and promote a healthy lifestyle for officers dealing with demanding work environments.

A moment of compassion marked the occasion as the family of Mahesh, a wireless unit staff member who recently passed away, received an insurance amount of Rs 75 lakh. Addressing the gathering, SP Ramarajan and SBI Regional Manager Hemanth Adhikari underscored the importance of insurance for financial security and encouraged all officers to secure adequate coverage.

BOX: Hassan district observes World Disability Day

Hassan: On the occasion of World Disability Day, Deputy Commissioner Latha Kumari urged citizens to support the inclusion of children with special needs in mainstream society. Speaking at the district-level sports and cultural competitions for differently-abled children at the district stadium, she emphasised that every child deserves compassion, dignity and equal opportunities.

The event was organised by the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department, and the Department for the Empowerment of Differently-Abled and Senior Citizens, along with various associations. The DC highlighted that children with special needs should never be isolated or made to feel helpless, and stressed the importance of extending government benefits to parents devoted to their care.

District Welfare Officer for the Differently-Abled, Anupama K R, and other officials were present.